Originally from Bristol, England, Phil first fell in love with Scotland in 2004 during a trip to the remote Shetland Isles. Volunteering and working in one of Europe’s most rugged regions sparked a lifelong passion for wild places—especially islands.

His role as Staff Naturalist at Aigas Field Centre set his course toward a life devoted to the Scottish Highlands and Islands. Over the past two decades, he has lived and worked on some of Scotland’s most iconic, nature-rich islands, including Fair Isle, Fetlar, North Ronaldsay and Handa. He has spent years exploring and guiding others through these breathtaking landscapes, rich in history, culture and biodiversity.

A geography graduate with a natural gift for leadership, Phil has led wildlife tours around the world. He holds a deep knowledge of Scotland’s flora and fauna—particularly birds, butterflies and moths—and enjoys interpreting each encounter within its larger ecological context.

Phil is also passionate about trees. On Skye, he runs a fruit tree business and manages a community-focused native tree nursery. When he’s not guiding, he’s often found in Skye’s lesser-known corners recording moths or gathering rare tree seeds—his two young daughters usually tagging along with enthusiasm. He now lives with his young family on a croft on Scotland’s iconic Isle of Skye, perched on the rugged Atlantic coast.